What Is Bible Journaling? A Guide to Creative Bible Study

What Is Bible Journaling? A Simple Guide to Get Started

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. | Proverbs 16:3

Bible journaling is more than just writing notes or highlighting verses—it’s an interactive way to study Scripture while creatively expressing your faith. For many, it’s a practice that helps them reflect deeply on God’s Word and see His truths in a new light. Whether you’re artistic or prefer a minimalist approach, Bible journaling can enrich your spiritual journey in unique and personal ways.

What Is Bible Journaling?

At its core, Bible journaling is the practice of engaging with Scripture by documenting your thoughts, prayers, and reflections in or alongside your Bible. For some, it’s as simple as jotting notes in the margins or highlighting verses. For others, it involves creating beautiful artwork, calligraphy, or thematic study notes.

Bible journaling allows you to slow down, meditate on Scripture, and create a personal record of your walk with God. As the psalmist says,

But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. | Psalm 1:2

Journaling is one way to delight in God’s Word and meditate on it as you strive to become more like Christ.

Why Should You Try Bible Journaling?

If you’re considering Bible journaling, here are a few reasons it might be perfect for you:

Bible Journaling Enhances Your Bible Study

Engaging with Scripture through journaling deepens your understanding by combining reading, reflection, and creativity. As we meditate on scripture, we are able to internalize the principles by which God asks us to live our lives.

It Helps You Focus

Writing out verses or doodling images related to Scripture can help you slow down and concentrate on God’s Word. In Psalm 119:11 says Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not son against thee. Focusing on God’s Word is the first step to hiding it in our hearts.

A Bible Journal Tracks Your Spiritual Growth

Looking back on your journal can show you how God has been faithful throughout your life, strengthening your faith for future life seasons.

It’s Versatile and Personal

You can keep it simple with notes and highlights or make it elaborate with art and calligraphy—Bible journaling is what you make of it. The most important thing is the deepening relationship we are gaining with Christ.

Getting Started with Bible Journaling

Here’s how to begin your journaling journey:

Step 1: Pick a Bible or Journal

Choose a journaling Bible with wide margins or use a separate notebook like our Hand-Stamped Bible Journals, which come in sets of three with beautiful hand-stamped kraft paper covers.

Step 2: Choose Your Tools

Gather supplies like highlighters, pens, sticky notes, and bookmarks. A Bible journaling kit can provide all the essentials in one package.

Step 3: Find Inspiration

Start by meditating on a favorite verse or passage. You could also follow a reading plan, to guide your study.

Step 4: Experiment with Styles

Whether you write notes, draw, or create verse maps, explore what feels most natural and meaningful to you.

What If You’re Not Artistic?

Good news: you don’t have to be! Some people hesitate to start Bible journaling because they think it requires artistic talent. But the truth is, Bible journaling is for everyone.

Take it from someone who struggles with traditional journaling: I’ve found that simply jotting down quick notes in the margins of my Bible—or occasionally using a notebook for extra reflections—keeps me connected to God’s Word without feeling overwhelmed.

Make Bible Journaling a Habit

Consistency is key to making Bible journaling a meaningful part of your faith walk. Whether you commit to journaling daily or a few times a week, the goal is to create a space for reflection and connection with God.

As the Bible reminds us,

Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. | Proverbs 16:3

By dedicating time to Bible journaling, you’re committing your heart and mind to Him.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to start, check out our Hand-Stamped Bible Journals and Bible Journaling Kits. These tools make it easy to dive into journaling, no matter your experience level.

Bible journaling is a practice that grows with you, allowing you to meditate on Scripture in fresh and meaningful ways. Start small, stay consistent, and watch how God uses this time to deepen your relationship with Him.